Custom HG 1/144 HG Gundam Ground Type Mk-II Demi Barding Build Overview

This custom model is a creative fusion of the HG 1/144 Demi Barding from Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury and a Gundam Mk-II head, crafted to resemble a ground combat-type mobile suit. The modeler took advantage of a 50% discount on the Demi Barding kit and used spare parts to create a unique build with a focus on simplicity and visual appeal.

Build Details

• Base Kit: HG 1/144 Demi Barding, equipped with a large backpack and leg-mounted thrusters that double as beam saber holsters. The kit includes a long-beam rifle with a movable auxiliary grip for two-handed posing.
• Custom Modification: The modeler replaced the Demi Barding’s head with a spare Gundam Mk-II head, giving it a ground combat aesthetic reminiscent of the RX-178 Gundam Mk-II from Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam.
• Additional Parts: A cannon, sourced from the modeler’s “junk box,” was added to the back. Its origin is unknown, but it enhances the ground combat vibe.
• Painting and Detailing:
  • The modeler opted for a minimalistic approach, avoiding heavy painting to keep the build “plain.”
  • Stickers were used for the eyes, providing a vibrant shine without the hassle of hand-painting.
  • Despite intending to restrain, the modeler added light painting with real touch markers for subtle accents.
• Assembly: The Demi Barding kit is noted for its stress-free construction, with no visible seams and easy-to-assemble parts, making it ideal for quick builds.

Design Notes

Outcome: The build is described as “pretty cool” with zero stress, highlighting the kit’s accessibility and the modeler’s satisfaction with the final look.

Ground Combat Aesthetic: The Gundam Mk-II head aligns the build with the rugged, utilitarian look of ground-type mobile suits, though the leg verniers (thrusters) initially felt out of place for a ground combat design. The modeler kept them for their cool factor.

Challenges: The verniers posed a conceptual issue, as ground-type units typically prioritize armor over mobility aids like thrusters. However, their visual appeal won out.